What is the difference between a natural witch and an eclectic witch?

QUESTION - I have always known that there's something different about me since I was a kid and as I got older my abilities and powers have gotten stronger and more powerful. I have never really had to ever cast a spell, make an altar etc. because everything I do comes from within me. I mean if I wanted to do anything all I have to do is think about it and meditate. I am also an empath psychically and emotionally - I can talk to animals and so on. When I first saw the movie “The Craft” I thought I was a natural witch, but I have been doing some research and am now thinking I'm more of an eclectic witch. Is there a difference between the two or are they kind of the same thing? If you can give me any insight on the matter, I would appreciate it as I'm just trying to find my way. Thank you.

ANSWER – My first piece of advice here is to largely ignore popular culture when it comes to deciding what kind of witch you are. Personally, I think “The Craft” is a great film, as are many others, but as with anything, it was made by Hollywood and sensationalises things somewhat beyond actual reality. It’s wise to take these things as they are – great entertainment!

A natural witch is someone who finds that they are talented in working magic. They will be someone who, like yourself, needs no tools from day one, though might still use them if they feel the need, and they will be able to summon from within themselves whatever is necessary for accomplishing their goal. However, they usually still need help in understanding their abilities and in controlling their capabilities – sometimes even more so than others because they are so capable.

An eclectic witch (hands up, that’s me) is someone who may or may not have natural ability but that chooses to follow a path that includes aspects from several paths. I myself began as a solitary Wiccan, moving onto more traditional witchcraft and then exploring both Celtic and Norse paths. I don’t follow them dogmatically or consider myself a follower of any of those paths. Instead I bring the aspects of each path I find into my own as I feel is appropriate. If I feel it necessary to use the Norse Runes for my work, then I will and if I feel I want to use a Wiccan circle casting method, then I do. Likewise, I also use kitchen and hedgewitchery practices in my work too as and when I feel the need to.

My advice here would be to go with what you feel inside. It does sound to me like you have natural ability in the ways of witching but is the label really needed? Perhaps spend some time meditating on this and see if you can hear what your soul has to tell you on the matter and then decide if you do need the label or not. Then maybe give yourself some time, even a few years, to explore paths and see if you find one that you’re drawn to work with or don’t really need one and can forge your own. That’s the real beauty of being a witch I think – it’s your choice, there is no dogma and labels are only there to help either yourself or other people understand you better. If you already understand yourself well then why seek another answer – have some faith in yourself.
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Brightest blessings,
Sarah